DE60104093T2 - Input device with multiple function switches - Google Patents

Description

Background of the invention

1. Field of the invention

The The invention relates to an input device according to the preamble of claim 1 and claim 5.

2. Description of the state of the technique

since For some time, motor vehicles have a number of electronic devices, including a CD player, an MD player, a radio, air conditioning, a TV receiver and a telephone. These devices are arranged in different places. If the driver of one of these devices want to serve, will deflect the driver's forward attention, which reduces driving safety. An input device or a control center on the dashboard to control the onboard equipment was therefore as a solution taken into consideration.

An exemplary operating center is based on the 10 to 16 explained. 10 is an overview of an operator center. How out 10 indicates the operating center contains 100 six function switches 101 . 101b . 101c . 101d . 101e and 101f and a multi-instruction input device 103 with a hand control button 102 , which allows for multi-way operation in the forward and backward direction as well as to the left and to the right. When selecting one of the function switches 101 . 101b . 101c . 101d . 101e and 101f will be one of the devices, such as the CD (or MD) player, the radio, the air conditioning 1 , the air conditioner 2 , the TV or the phone is controlled according to the pressed button.

11 to 16 show functions that the operating direction of the handheld panel 102 correspond and respectively from the function switches 101 - 101f be executed. If, for example, according to 11 the function switch 101c is pressed to the air conditioning 1 to select corresponds to the operation of the manual control panel 102 in the forward direction (up), in the backward direction (down), to the left and to the right of the control of the air conditioner 1 the high position of the outlet blower, the lowering of the outlet blower, the increase of the blower power or the reduction of the blower output. In addition, if according to 12 to 16 another device is selected controls the operating direction of the manual control panel 102 a preset function of the selected device. As you can see, the control center 100 Some functions of several electronic devices by combining the selection of function switches 101 to 101f with the operating direction of the manual control panel 102 Taxes.

If the operator is the driver, for example while driving the motor vehicle, the operator driver must pay attention to pedestrians and other vehicles in front of him in order to drive safely. This means that the operator driver is the control center 100 must operate by blind touch, ie, without looking at the control center. This requires a good understanding of the function of each key 101 to 101f and the hand control panel 102 by the operator-driver, if this is the hand control panel 102 wants to push in the right direction or when he switches 101 to 101f operated for control. However, it is difficult to persuade any driver to properly memorize all functionalities, and personal habits and preferences may lead to misunderstandings or misunderstandings.

Such as In 11 is shown, the directional distance is used by the driver as a reference for controlling the air conditioning power of the air conditioning, according to the performance of the fan in such a way that, for example, the fan is fed with more power when the hand panel 102 is operated to the left (in the direction facing away from the driver operator in a right-angle motor vehicle) while the blower power is being lowered when the hand control panel 102 is operated to the right (in the direction to the driver-operator direction in a motor vehicle with right-hand drive). For example, it often happens that someone who uses an XY coordinate system at work has the impression that moving to the right means an increase, whereas moving to the left means a decrease. If such a person misuses the control center and becomes aware of the mistake, that person will try to hurry, but there is a risk of an accident.

Although a custom control center, which according to the manual operation field 102 and one of the functions of the function switch 101 - 101f has already been developed and proposed for a hand customer adjustment, the customization of the control center for all electronic devices on board a motor vehicle or in all directions is tedious and requires time-consuming work.

According to the preamble of claim 1 and claim 5, US-A-5 491 313 shows an input device in which a plurality of function switches and a manual control panel on an elastomeric Keypad are arranged. The function switches are simple on / off switches and may be combined switches to turn on / off a fan or to control the speed of a fan motor or the like. The control panel includes four directional displays for up, down, left and right control of side mirrors and the like.

epiphany the invention

The the present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances and its goal is to overcome the above problems and an input device which makes it possible the correspondence between the operating direction of the manual control panel and the function or correspondence between the function switches and the controlled devices to adapt to the customer's habits or preferences, to reduce operating errors.

Around To achieve this goal contains an input device according to the invention the features of claim 1 or claim 5.

preferred embodiments are the dependent claims specified. The operator can recognize which function switch most vulnerable for one misoperation is, and he acts more carefully when reacting to a faulty operation, resulting in a gradual Reduction of incorrect operation of the function switch leads.

Moreover, according to the invention, the control unit allows the electronic device selected by a function switch in the first action to be replaced by another device selected by another action after the warning signals are generated. The operator can decide whether the reassignment of a device which is assigned to a most frequently incorrectly actuated function switch should be made to another function switch. When the remapping takes place and a certain number of repeats of reassignment have occurred, the device mapping becomes the function switch 21a - 21f modified to best suit the habits and subjective preferences of the operator, ultimately resulting in a significant reduction in malfunction of the function switches without requiring a complex procedure for customization.

The component associated with a function switch most susceptible to misuse is automatically replaced by another component associated with another function switch. After a certain number of repetitions of this reassignment is the device assignment with respect to the function switch 21a - 21f modified to best fit the user's habits and subjective preferences, which ultimately results in a significant decrease in malfunction of the function switches without the warning unit being alerted each time.

Furthermore The invention includes a warning unit for generating signaling signals, the an operator over inform the automatic remapping of the electronic device, wherein the control unit causes the warning unit to receive the signaling signals or generate alert signals when the device reassignment is made is. The operator can confirm the reassignment.

According to the invention Function switch provided in a console box, and that of the To select function switches Electronic devices are electrical components with which equipped a motor vehicle is. Since the operations and operations during driving by blind touch driving, is when driving the function switch much safer.

The Operator can control the operating direction of the manual operation panel recognize it most often when it comes to an error, and then it can when executing the most frequently Incorrect function increased Take care, resulting in a gradual decrease in actions leads to the manual control panel.

Furthermore can according to the invention the assignment the electronic device, which was selected by the preceding action, by a direction of operation for one other device mapping be replaced in a different direction from the control unit selected was after the warning signals were generated. The operator may have the option to reassign the operating direction to a to do another function with a different direction or not. If a reallocation is made and the reallocation a certain Number of repetitions has undergone the device allocation regarding the Operating directions of the manual operation field modified in the most appropriate manner to the habits and to adapt to the preferences of the operator, eventually leading to a significant decrease in errors in field operation leads, without that a complicated learning procedure would be required.

The function assigned to a direction of operation in which the operator most frequently makes mistakes is automatically changed by another Function assigned to a different direction, and after a certain repetition of the reassignment, the respective function associated with a direction of operation is modified to best suit the habits and preferences of the operator, eventually leading to a significant decrease in erroneous actions on the manual operation field leads without having to react to warning signals from the warning unit each time.

Furthermore For example, the present invention includes a warning unit for generating of warning signals that alert the operator about a reallocation informing the control unit of the warning unit, generate the alert signals when device remapping has occurred. The operator can recognize the reallocation and is stopped to operate the manual control panel.

Besides, they are according to the invention, the function switch and the hand panel in a console box of a motor vehicle arranged while the electronic devices Electrical components are located onboard a motor vehicle located and selected by the function switches. The functions are individual functions of each individual electronic component in a motor vehicle. As when driving a vehicle, the operations by blind touch accomplished Driving becomes safer if the function switches as well like the manual operation field actuated become.

The explained above and other objects and features of the invention will become apparent clearly from the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. However, it is understood that the accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only, but not to limit the limits of the present invention.

Short description the drawings

The attached Drawings which are part of the present specification, show an embodiment of the invention and together with the description to serve the Aims to explain the advantages and principles of the invention. In the Drawings show:

1 a schematic block diagram for an input device according to the invention;

2 a schematic diagram of an input device according to the invention;

3 an exemplary function table illustrating the combination of the assignments of function switches and actuation directions of the manual pad to individual functions of an input device according to the invention;

4 an example of counting errors stored in an error counter for the first and second embodiments of the invention;

5 a flowchart illustrating the control flow in the first preferred embodiment of the invention;

6 a flow chart illustrating the control flow in the second preferred embodiment of the invention;

7 an example of the count of errors stored in an error counter of the third and fourth embodiments of the invention;

8th a flow chart illustrating the control flow of the third preferred embodiment of the invention;

9 a flowchart illustrating the control flow in the fourth preferred embodiment of the invention;

10 a schematic diagram of an input device according to the prior art;

11 a schematic diagram of the correspondence of the actuating direction of the manual operating plate with respect to the associated function of the air conditioner 1 in the input device according to the prior art;

12 a schematic diagram showing the correspondence of the actuating direction of the manual platelet and the associated function of the air conditioner 2 illustrated in the input device according to the prior art;

13 12 is a schematic diagram illustrating the correspondence between the operation direction of the manual operation pad and the associated function of the CD (MD) player in the input device of the prior art;

14 12 is a schematic diagram illustrating the correspondence between the operation direction of the manual slide and the associated function of the radio in the input device of the prior art;

15 12 is a schematic diagram illustrating the correspondence between the operation direction of the manual slide and the associated function of the television in the input device of the prior art; and

16 a schematic diagram illustrating the correspondence between the operation of the manual pad and the associated function of the phone in the input device according to the prior art.

detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments

First embodiment

The following is particularly with reference to the 1 to 5 a detailed description of the first preferred embodiment of the invention given.

1 shows a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of an input device according to the invention. As can be seen from the figure, the input device contains 10 a control unit (CPU) 11 , a first warning unit 12 , a second warning unit 13 and an input unit 14 ,

The control unit 11 contains a processor, a RAM, a ROM, a timer, an error counter 15 and a function table 16 , The control unit 11 can do the functions of receiving input via the input unit 14 , controlling the first and second warning units 12 and 16 and outputting control signals to electronic units such as a CD player, an MD player, a radio, an air conditioner, a television, a telephone, or the like.

The first and the second warning unit 12 and 13 For example, liquid crystal elements, buzzers, light-emitting diodes or vibrators built into the manual pad may be used to provide warning signals, or to notify the operator of the command result for a component received from the control unit 11 has received the control signals.

The input unit 14 according to Table 2 contains six function switches 21a . 21b . 21c . 21d . 21e and 21f , also a multi-directional input device 23 with a manual override or actuation element for manual override in four directions, forward, backward, left and right. It also has the manual tappet 22 two input switches on both sides 24a and 24b ,

The error counter 15 Can be used when the function switch 21a to 21f or the manual pad may be manipulated to monitor the actions and determine whether or not the action taken at the particular time was a failed operation or not to the number of errors related to the selection of the function switches 21a to 21f and the actuating direction of the manual actuating plate 22 to count and save.

In the 3 illustrated function table 16 is a reference table regarding the correspondence between the combination of the selection of the function switches 21a to 21f with the actuating direction of the manual actuating plate 22 and the individual function of the connected components. As can be seen from the figure, the function switches 21a to 21f Preset in association with electronic devices, and these corresponding functions are assigned by respective operating directions of the manual platelet 22 , The function table 16 is in the internal memory of the control unit 11 through the control unit 11 and non-volatile due to uninterrupted power supply from the battery.

Thus, if one of the function switches 21a - 21f the input unit 14 is selected and the manual operation tile 22 is adjusted in any of the directions, the control unit takes 11 Reference to the function table 16 to perform a function which combines the operations of the selected function switch in the switch 21a - 21f in conjunction with the direction of the manual tappet 22 assigned. If, for example, a function switch 21a selected and the manual operation tile 22 is brought forward, the control unit performs 11 a function to make the sound of the CD player louder.

The operating procedure of the first preferred embodiment of the invention will be described below with reference to FIGS 5 explained. When the operator selects one of the function switches 21a - 21f performs (step S51), determines the error counter 15 from the internal timer circuit of the control unit 11 since the last selection of function switches 21a - 21f time elapsed until now (step S52). Then compare the error counter 15 the elapsed time with a predetermined period of time (T / s) (step S53). If the elapsed time is longer than T, it is determined that the last operation of the function switch 21a to 21f did not contain an error, and the circuit waits for the next action on the function switches 21a - 21f (Step S54). If the elapsed time is shorter than T, the circuit determines that the last action related to the function scarf ter 21a - 21f there was a mistake, and it increases the number of errors of the trained one switch from the function switches 21 - 21f , where the count in the control unit 11 is saved as an example in 4 is displayed (step S55). Then, the circuit compares the thus-increased number of counted errors with a predetermined number (N) (step S56). If the counted number of errors is less than M, the circuit waits for the next action on the function switches 21a - 21f (Step S54). If the counted number of errors is equal to M, the control unit gives 11 Warning signals to the first warning unit 12 to warn the operator / driver. The first warning unit 12 is used to alert the operator to alert him that the counted errors of the previously selected function switch from the switches 21a - 21f reaches a predetermined number, and to ask the operator if he wishes to use the last selected function switch of the switch 21a - 21f to replace the associated component by another component, which until then another switch from the function switches 21a - 21f was assigned (step S57). Then, the circuit waits for the answer (input) from the operator (step S58).

If there is no response after a predetermined period of time, the counted errors of the last selected function switch become the switches 21a - 21f set to zero (step S59) for the next action on the function switches 21a - 21f to wait (step S54). When the operator responds with a response, the circuit replaces the last selected switch from the function switches 21a - 21f assigned component in the function table 16 by another interchangeable component, which until then another switch of the function switch 21a - 21f was assigned (step S60), and it deletes the counted errors of the last selected switch from the function switches 21a - 21f (Step S61) to move to the next action of the function switch 21a - 21f to wait (step S54).

When the first warning unit 12 is a display device such as a liquid crystal display (LCD), the issued warning signals are display signals for display on an LCD film, which are thus output as an LCD warning to the operator (step S57). Then, the LCD displays a message to the operator, and the operator in turn responds by executing the replacement of the associated components to the function switches 21a - 21f ,

When the first warning unit 12 provides an audio signal, for example via a loudspeaker, the warning signals are an indication in the form of a voice command via the loudspeaker, whereby the operator receives a message (step S57). The operator understands the warning issued through the speaker so that he knows he has made a mistake in the touch operation or shift, and he follows the note given by the audio output, the function switches 21a - 21f to replace associated components.

When the first warning unit 12 is a ringing device, such as a buzzer, a chime or a bell, the warning signals are a sound output via the buzzer giving an indication to the operator (step S57). The operator understands from the buzzer audio output that he has made a mistake and, for example, has the option of not changing if a function switch 21b is pressed while replacing the function switches 21a - 21f assigned components should be made when another function switch 21a is selected.

When the first warning unit 12 is a light-emitting device including light-emitting diodes or a lamp, the warning signals cause the light-emitting diode to emit light, whereby the operator is warned about the light-emitting diodes (step S57). Then, because of the light emitted by the light emitting diodes, the operator understands that he has made a mistake and now has the option of, for example, not exchanging when he switches the function switch 21b while replacing the function switches 21a - 21f associated components occurs when another function switch 21a is selected.

When the first warning unit 12 a vibrator is in the hand operation slide 22 is installed, the warning signals serve to make the vibrator vibrate, so that the operator is warned about the vibrator (step S57). The operator then understands due to the vibration on the vibrator that he has made a mistake and, for example, does not want to exchange if he has a function switch 21b whereas replacement of the function switches 21a - 21f assigned components should be made when another function switch 21a is selected.

It It should be noted at this point that the present invention of the nature of the human operator to hastily try a mistake made, this error committed to correct. Therefore, it may be preferable if the predetermined Time span T is between one and three seconds, and if moreover the predetermined counted Number M is in the range of 2 to 5.

One can determine which the function switches 21a - 21f Associated component is the best candidate, either on a random basis or by the operator's choice, by the operator selecting one of the components of the function switches 21a - 21f selects as a result of a message.

As apparent from the above explanation, a message is issued when the total count of errors reaches a predetermined threshold number. The operator can recognize which button under the function switches 21a - 21f was most often mis-actuated to take action on the most frequently erroneously operated function keys 21a - 21f to exercise due care, so that eventually the malfunction of the function switch 21a - 21f reduce. In addition, when a device associated with a key is replaced with another one, the most frequently erroneously operated device becomes one of the function switches 21a - 21f was to be replaced by another device, the other the function switch 21a - 21f was assigned, and so on, hence the device assignment to the function switches 21a - 21f gradually harmonized with the habits or preferences of the operator, resulting in a decrease in the malfunction of the function switch 21a - 21f leads.

Second embodiment

In the following, a second preferred embodiment of the invention will be described with reference to FIGS 6 described in greater detail. The input device of the second preferred embodiment has a similar structure as the input device of the above first embodiment explained above, wherein steps S51 to S56 of the operation procedure in FIG 6 are identical to the correspondingly designated steps S51-S56 in FIG 5 , so that a detailed explanation of the already described parts of the previous embodiment can be omitted.

The control flow in the second preferred embodiment may be switched such that the targeted number of errors is compared with a predetermined number M (step S56) when the counted number equals M, the last selected device corresponding to one of the function switches 21a - 21f is assigned automatically replaced by another device, which so far another of the function switch 21a - 21f was assigned (step S62), then the control unit 11 the count of the errors with respect to the last selected switch of the function switch 21a - 21f clears (step S63) and the second warning unit 13 causes the operator to be notified that device remapping has occurred (step S64). Subsequently, the controller waits for the next action regarding the function switches 21a - 21f (Step S54).

As can be seen from the above explanation, a device which is one of the function switches 21a - 21f which is frequently mis-actuated, is automatically replaced by another device, the other being the function switch 21a - 21f is assigned, so that the operator needs to do nothing and still after a certain iteration of this process, the device assignment with respect to the function switch 21a - 21f are modified in the most appropriate manner for the habits and subjective preferences of the operator, eventually leading to a significant decrease in malfunction of the function switch 21a - 21f leads. Since the control unit notifies the reassignment, the operator can confirm the automatic reassignment and is thereby made more secure.

Third embodiment

Next, a third preferred embodiment of the invention will be described in more detail with reference to FIGS 8th explained. The present embodiment has an identical structure to the above first embodiment, like elements have the same reference numerals, and a detailed description of the already described parts of the preceding embodiments will be omitted. In the operation of the third preferred embodiment of the invention, when the operator releases the manual pad 22 in any direction, the control unit moves (step S81) 11 a function that is the combination of a device currently selected with the operating direction of the manual pad 22 is assigned (step S82). Then the error counter determines 15 from the in the control unit 11 built-in internal timer since the last operation of the manual operation tile 22 time elapsed until now (step S83). Then, the error counter compares the detected elapsed time with a predetermined time (T / s) (step S84). If, in the comparison, the elapsed time is longer than T, this is interpreted to mean that the last actuation of the manual pad 22 was no error, and the control unit 11 waiting for the next action (S85). If, on the other hand, the elapsed time is shorter than T, the last action on the manual action tile becomes 22 estimated as an error, and the count of the counter, in the control unit 11 is stored, according to the last selected operating direction of the manual operation tile 22 , is raised, how out 7 shows (step S86). Thereafter, the error count is compared with a predetermined number M (step S87). If the counted errors are less than M, the controller waits for the next action on the manual tamper 22 (Step 85 ). If the counted errors are equal to M, the control unit gives 11 Warning signals to the first warning unit 12 to warn the operator, and the first warning unit 12 signals to the operator that the frequency of errors the operator has reached has reached a predetermined frequency since the last actuation of the manual tamper 22 and the operator is prompted to reassign the device function according to the last selected direction of the manual tamper 22 to another device function according to another direction of the manual pad 22 is to be done (step S88), and then waiting for an answer by the operator (step S89). If there is no action on the part of the operator after a predetermined period of time, then the error count for the last selected direction of the manual operation tile 22 set to zero (step S90), and the process waits for the next action of the manual operation tile 22 (Step S85). When the operator answers, the one in the function table becomes 16 stored function, the last selected direction when operating the manual operation plate 22 assigned, replaced by another actuation function, the other operating direction of the manual actuator plate 22 is assigned (step S91), and the error counter of the last selected operating direction of the manual operation tile 22 is set to zero (step S92) to wait for the next action on the manual operation tile (step S85).

When the first warning unit 12 is a display device, such as a liquid crystal panel, the warning signals may represent a display on the liquid crystal display, which transmits a message to the operator via the LCD screen (step S88).

A message is displayed to the operator on the LCD screen, and the operator, in turn, follows the instruction communicated to him by the message, corresponding to the operating directions of the manual operation pad 22 replace assigned functions.

When the first warning unit 12 an audio output device, such as a speaker, the warning signals form a voice command via the loudspeaker, which transmits a message to the operator (step S88). The operator then understands the voice command from the speaker, which means that he has made a mistake in the touch operation, so that he follows the audio instruction and accordingly the operating directions of the manual slide 22 exchanged assigned functions.

When the first warning unit 12 is a bell that contains a buzzer, a chime or a bell, so the warning signals output sounds or sounds from the buzzer, which is a message to the operator (step S88). The operator then understands from the sound delivered by the buzzer that he has made a mistake in operation, and he may be given the option, for example, not to exchange when he hands the touchpad 22 moves backwards while exchanging the functions that the manual pad 22 are assigned, when the manual tappet 22 is moved forward.

When the first warning unit 12 is a light emitting device, for example in the form of a lamp or in the form of light-emitting diodes, the warning signals mean the light output by LEDs, whereby the operator is warned about the light emitting diodes (step S88). The operator then understands by the light output from the LEDs that he has made a user error, and he can get the option, for example, no replacement in the operation of the manual pad 22 if he moves the latter backwards. On the other hand, by moving the manual operation plate 22 forward by the operator an exchange of the manual tappet 22 assigned functions are made.

When the first warning unit 12 a vibrator is in the palm of your hand 22 is installed, the warning signals may be a control signal for causing a vibration of the vibrator, whereby the operator is warned about the vibrator (step S88).

As a result, the operator understands due to the vibration on the vibrator that he has made a mistake and now has the option, for example, that no replacement is made when the manual pad 22 moves to the rear, whereas an exchange of functions for the manual platelet 22 is made when it is moved forward.

From the above description, it can be seen that the operator, because he is warned, after the counted errors have reached a predetermined threshold number, more carefully bypasses the operation in giving commands, thus eventually failing to operate the manual tamper 22 gradually become rarer. When an exchange of functions takes place, the one direction of the manual operation tile becomes 22 assigned function, at the instigation of which errors are made, replaced by another function, and after a certain repetition of the reassignment operation for the operating directions of the manual operation tile 22 the system is best adapted to the habits and preferences of the operator, eventually resulting in a significant reduction in erroneous operation of the manual pad 22 leads.

Of the One skilled in the art recognizes that when reassigning, the best candidate for the function, the one for one incorrect selected Function to replace is possibly the opposite direction of operation in case of erroneous operation Direction is after the operator has a predetermined number of However, this candidate can also go wrong Random basis chosen become. Alternative to the desired one newly assigned operating direction can be set according to the choice of the operator after a warning has been issued.

Fourth embodiment

In the following, a fourth embodiment of the invention in detail with reference to the 9 be explained. The input device according to the preferred embodiment has a similar structure as the input device of the foregoing first embodiment already described above and that in the procedure of FIG 9 Steps S81-S87 included are identical to the corresponding steps of the third preferred embodiment of FIG 8th (S81-S87), so that the detailed description of the already explained parts of the preceding embodiments is omitted.

In the control flow of the fourth preferred embodiment, the error counter compares 15 the counted number of errors with a predetermined number M (step S87). If the count of errors is M, the last one selected will be in the function table 16 stored and a direction of operation of the manual platelet 22 assigned function automatically replaced by another function, the other operating direction of the manual operation slide 22 is assigned (step S93), the error counter for the last selected operating direction of the manual operation tile 22 becomes zero (step S94), the control unit 11 causes the second alerting unit to notify the operator that the reallocation has taken place (step S95), and it will proceed to the next action on the manual tampering tile 22 serviced (step S85).

In the manner already described above, one of an operation direction of the manual operation tile 22 Assigned function that most frequently generates errors, automatically exchanged with another function that is in a different direction of the manual operation slide 22 assigned. After a certain iteration of the remapping, the directions of operation of the manual pad 22 are best adapted to the habits and preferences of the operator, eventually resulting in a significant decrease in erroneous actuation of the manual pad 22 leads. Since the control unit signals each reassignment made, the operator can confirm the automatic reassignment and is notified accordingly.

the Specialist is also clear that, although preferred embodiments described in which the count of errors is incremented but in the same way can also count by counting a Number of errors will be decremented, even in this case upon reaching a predetermined threshold number by the count a similar Effect in both respects.

Although the input device according to the invention has been explained in connection with an example in which an input device for electrical Components are provided in a vehicle, the expert sees clear that the invention also in other specific forms can be realized without departing from the essence and spirit of the invention departing. For example, the input device in the same Way applied to home appliances become, for example, a microwave oven, a personal computer or a mobile phone.

As one of ordinary skill in the above description can appreciate, the input device according to the invention comprises a plurality of function switches, each associated with one of a plurality of electronic devices, for selecting one of these devices, with a control unit for controlling these electronic devices, and a warning unit thereto serves to generate warning signals to inform an operator of incorrect operations, an error counter is further provided to monitor the actions of the operator and to count and store the number of errors for each of the action switches. The error counter increments the counted number of errors by determining when a function switch has been depressed within a predetermined period of time following actuation of another function switch, and then interpreting the previous switch operation as an error. The control unit causes the warning unit to generate warning signals when the counted number of errors reaches a predetermined threshold number. The operator can recognize which function switch is most susceptible to misuse, and then he can use greater care in the operation in response to erroneous operation, resulting in a gradual shutdown the faulty operation of the function switch leads.

According to the invention, the control unit enables the electronic device selected via a function switch actuated in a first action to be replaced by another device which has been assigned to another function switch after the generation of warning signals. This allows the operator to decide whether to reassign a device associated with the most commonly mis-actuated function switch to another function switch. If a new assignment and a certain iteration of new assignments takes place, the device assignment is to the function switches 21a - 21f has been modified in a manner that best suits the habits and preferences of the operator, ultimately leading to a significant decrease in error actions on the function switches without the need for complex customization.

In addition, the input device according to the invention includes a plurality of function switches, each having a plurality of electronic devices for selecting one of these devices. A control unit is for controlling these electronic devices, and an error counter is for monitoring the operation of the devices to count and store the number of incorrect operations of each of the function switches. The error counter increments the counted number of errors by determining, when a function switch is pressed within a predetermined period of time after actuation of another function switch, that the previous switch operation was a failure. The control unit replaces the electronic device selected by the switch operated in the previous action with another electronic device selected by another function switch until the error count count reaches a predetermined threshold. The component associated with the most frequently malfunctioning function switch can be automatically replaced by another component associated with another function switch. After a certain iteration of this reassignment, the device assignment is the function switch 21a - 21f modified in the most appropriate manner for the user's habits and preferences, which ultimately results in a significant reduction in malfunction of the function switches, without having to respond to warning signals from the warning unit each time.

Furthermore For example, the present invention includes a warning unit for generating of alerting signals to an operator via automatic remapping with the control unit causing the warning unit to Generate alert signals when device remapping is complete. The operator can confirm the reassignment.

Furthermore can according to the invention function switch be arranged in the instrument panel, while selected by the function switch electronic equipment can be electrical components, with which a motor vehicle is equipped. Since during the Driving so a vehicle these operations are performed by blind touch, Driving becomes safer while such function switches are operated.

In addition, the input device according to the invention contains a plurality of function switches, each corresponding to a plurality electronic devices are provided to select one of these devices. A hand operation tile is manipulable in two or more directions to a function of a electronic device according to the direction of actuation select. A control unit for the instruction of electronic devices leads to the execution of Functions. A warning unit is used to generate warning signals, to an operator via Inform operator errors, an error counter is used for monitoring the actions taken by the operator, the number of incorrect operations for each Function switch to count and save. The error counter serves to increase the counted Number of errors in the operating directions by, if that Manual operation plate in a predetermined period of time after its previous operation in pressed in another direction it has been established that the previous operation was Mistake was. The control unit initiates the warning unit, warning signals to generate when the counted At number of errors reaches a predetermined threshold. Of the Operator can see the operating direction in which the manual operation pad on error-prone is for an operator, and he can then accordingly increased care when causing the most common incorrectly chosen Spend the function so that it eventually becomes a gradual one Decrease of incorrect operations of the manual operation tile comes.

According to the invention, moreover, the assignment of the electronic device selected in a previous action by one operating direction can be replaced by another assignment of another device which has been selected by another operating direction, which is done by the control unit after warning signals have been generated. The operator may have the option of reassigning for the operating direction to another function of another operating direction is done or not. If a new assignment is made and there is some iteration of the reassignment, then the device assignment to operating directions of the manual tamper is modified to best suit the habits and preferences of the operator, ultimately leading to a significant decrease in tampering in the tipping operation, without the need for a complex procedure for customization.

In addition, the present contains Invention a plurality of function switches, each one of a Majority of electronic devices correspond to one of these devices select; a hand operation tile, that is manipulatable in two or more directions to a function of the electronic device select by selecting the direction of actuation; a Control unit for starting the electronic devices, their Perform functions; and an error counter to monitor the operation, by the number of incorrect operations in the selection of the operating direction of the manual operation tile to count and save. The error counter increments the number of operating errors in the operating direction, by determining when after a predetermined period of time after an operation in a certain direction, the manual tappet in a different direction was pressed, consequently, the previous switch operation is interpreted as an error becomes. The control unit replaces that of the operating direction of the previous one Action selected Function by another action selected in a subsequent action, if the counted error rate reaches a predetermined threshold. The one direction of operation assigned function by the operator with the greatest frequency incorrectly selected is automatically replaced by another function, the one other operating direction corresponds, because after a certain iteration The reassignment is the function assignment of the operating directions modified in a way that best suits the habits and The operator's preferences match, eventually leading to a significant reduction from wrong operations on the hand operation tile leads, without Each time respond to warning signals from the warning unit got to.

Furthermore The present invention provides a warning unit for generating of alerting signals to the operator about a re-assignment to inform. The controller instructs the warning unit, warning signals to generate when the device remapping is done. The operator can recognize the reallocation and is prompted to release the manual pad accordingly to press.

Farther can according to the invention function switch and a manual pad in the control panel be arranged of a vehicle, the electronic devices can electrical Be components that are on board and through the function switch selected be able to do the functions doing individual functions for be the individual components. Because while driving a vehicle this operations by blind touch selected will be driving during the operation of these function switches and the manual operation plate safer.

The above description of preferred embodiments of the invention is for the purpose of illustration and explanation. You can see that the embodiments not exhaustive are intended and the invention is not disclosed on the exact embodiments limited are, rather, modifications and modifications in the light of above lessons possible and can be derived from the realization of the invention. The selected and described embodiments are intended to explain the principles of the invention, as well as their practical application, so that the person skilled in the art for different embodiments as well as for various modifications for special applications can use. The scope of the invention is only by the attached claims certainly.

Claims (8)

Input device ( 10 ), comprising: a plurality of function switches ( 21a - 21f ) each corresponding to a plurality of electronic devices for selecting one of the devices; and a control unit ( 11 ) for controlling the electronic devices; characterized by an error counter ( 15 ) for monitoring the operation of the function switches ( 21a - 21f ) to increase the number of counters on actuation of each of the function switches ( 21a - 21f ) and to store, the error counter ( 15 ) increases the counted number of errors by determining that, if one of the function switches was operated within a predetermined period of time after the operation of another function switch, the previous switch operation was an error; and the control unit ( 11 ) that of the function switch operated in the previous action ( 21a - 21f ) selected electronic device replaced by another, selected by another function switch electronic device when the counted number of counters reaches a predetermined threshold number. The device of claim 1, further comprising: a second warning unit ( 13 ) for generating message signals for informing an operator of the function switches ( 21a - 21f ) on the automatic reassignment of the electronic device, the control unit ( 21 ) causes the second warning unit to generate the message signals when the device remapping has been performed. Input device according to Claim 1 or 2, in which the function switches ( 21a - 21f ) are provided in a console box and that of the function switches ( 21a - 21f ) selected electronic devices are electrical components with which a motor vehicle is equipped. Input device according to Claim 2, in which the function switches ( 21a - 21f ) are arranged in a dashboard and the electronic devices that are selected by the function switches are electrical components with which a motor vehicle is equipped. Input device comprising: a manual operation field ( 22 ) adapted to be manipulated in accordance with a plurality of electronic devices and in two or more directions for selecting the function of an electronic device via the actuating direction; and a control unit ( 11 ) for causing the electronic devices to perform the function; characterized by an error counter ( 15 ) for monitoring the operation of the manual operating field ( 22 ) by the operator to determine the number of errors in each operating direction of the manual operating field ( 22 ) and to store, the error counter ( 15 ) increases the counted number of operating direction errors by noting that when the manual operation field ( 22 ) is operated in a direction within a predetermined time period after the manual operation field has been operated in a different direction, the preceding switch operation was a failure; and the control unit ( 11 ) replaces the function selected by the operation direction in a previous action with another function selected in a subsequent action when the counted number of errors reaches a predetermined threshold number. An input device according to claim 5, further comprising: a second warning unit for generating message signals to inform the operator of the re-assignment made, the control unit ( 11 ) causes the second warning unit to generate the message signals when the device remapping has occurred. Input device according to claim 5, comprising a plurality of function switches each provided in and corresponding to one and a plurality of electronic devices, the function switches and the manual operation field ( 22 ) are arranged in a console box of a motor vehicle and the electronic devices are electrical components that form a bilateral equipment and by the function switch ( 21a - 21f In addition, the functions are individual functions of each of the electronic components in a motor vehicle. Input device according to claim 5 or 6, comprising a plurality of function switches ( 21a - 21f ), respectively corresponding to one and for selecting one of a plurality of electronic devices, wherein the function switches and the manual operating field ( 22 ) are arranged in a dashboard and that of the function switches ( 21a - 21f ) selected electronic devices are electronic components in a motor vehicle, while the functions are individual functions within each electronic component of a motor vehicle.